A power steering pump helps reduce the effort needed to steer the car by exerting a hydraulic pressure, which in turn helps turn the wheels. If the pump has developed a leak and is losing fluid or isn't working properly for another reason, the safety of the car's occupants is in danger. To ensure that the car is safe, you must replace the power steering pump [source: Memmer]. Here's how to replace a power steering pump.
- Shut off the engine and let it cool off.
- Locate and identify the power steering pump.
- Remove the power-steering belt from the pump.
- Place a pan under the pump and drain the power-steering fluid from the pump by disconnecting the feed and return lines.
- Remove the mounting bolts from the mounting bracket.
- Remove the power steering pump.
- Install the new power steering pump and bolt it down to the mounting bracket.
- Reconnect the feed and return lines to the pump.
- Reconnect the power steering belt, making sure it's tight.
- Fill the new pump with power steering fluid.
- Turn on the engine and let it run for a few minutes before you drive it, to allow the fluid to circulate in the new pump.
- Check the fluid level in the pump (using the dipstick) and make sure there is enough fluid.
- Turn the steering wheel to the right and left and see if it moves easily [source: AutoMD].
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